8 Days Wildebeest calving season safari with lake natron

Arrival in Arusha Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your safari guide who will escort you to your hotel in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Take some time to relax and enjoy the charming town of Arusha, known for its lively markets and stunning views of Mount Meru. If time permits, you can explore a bit of the town or visit a nearby cultural center to learn about the local Maasai community. Overnight in Arusha at a comfortable hotel or lodge.

Tarangire National Park After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, approximately a 2-hour drive from Arusha. Known for its large elephant herds and striking baobab trees, Tarangire is one of Tanzania's most unique parks. As you embark on a game drive, you’ll witness the park’s remarkable wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and the famous tree-climbing lions. Birdwatchers will delight in the diversity of bird species, including the endangered species of vultures. With the Tarangire River running through the park, wildlife gather here to drink, creating excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. After a thrilling game drive, relax and enjoy dinner at your lodge or camp within or near the park.

ake Natron After an early breakfast, continue your journey to Lake Natron, a remote and captivating area at the base of the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. The lake is known for its stunning red and pink hues, especially during the dry season, due to the high salt content and algae blooms. The lake is a key breeding ground for flamingos, which can be seen in large flocks. Take a walk to the nearby Natron Waterfalls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool, crystal-clear water while admiring the surrounding landscapes. You’ll also have the chance to explore the area and its unique volcanic features. Stay overnight at a lodge or tented camp near the lake, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and views of the volcano.

Ngorongoro Crater After breakfast, depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Tanzania’s most iconic destinations. The Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," is a collapsed volcanic caldera that is home to an incredibly rich variety of wildlife. Descend into the crater for a full-day game drive in search of the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). The fertile floor of the crater supports large populations of animals, making it one of the best places to see wildlife up close. Along with the large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and buffalo, you may also spot predators such as lions and cheetahs. After a day of exploration, return to your lodge or camp for the evening.

Ndutu (Wildebeest Calving Season) On Day 5, depart for Ndutu, located on the southern edge of the Serengeti, one of the most remarkable wildlife hotspots, especially during the wildebeest calving season. From late January to early March, the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area are the center of the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeest give birth in an explosive event that attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Over the next two days, you’ll enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives in Ndutu, witnessing the spectacle of newborn wildebeest and the dramatic interactions between predators and prey. Apart from the wildebeest, you’ll encounter numerous species such as gazelles, elephants, and birdlife. The combination of rich wildlife and stunning landscapes makes Ndutu a truly unforgettable experience. You’ll stay in a comfortable lodge or tented camp in the Ndutu area.

Serengeti National Park On Day 7, drive to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, famous for its vast plains and abundant wildlife. Spend a full day exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems, from open savannas to riverine woodlands. As you drive through the Serengeti, keep an eye out for large prides of lions, cheetahs sprinting across the plains, and elephants moving through the grasslands. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration or the aftermath of the wildebeest calving. Serengeti’s wildlife is abundant year-round, making every game drive exciting. After a full day of exploration, retire to your lodge or tented camp for the evening.

Serengeti Half-Day Game Drive & Return to Arusha On the final day of your safari, you’ll enjoy a half-day game drive in the Serengeti, where you can capture the last of the incredible wildlife sightings and soak in the beauty of the park’s landscapes. Afterward, return to Arusha with a picnic lunch along the way. Arrive in Arusha in the late afternoon, where you can either catch your flight back home or extend your stay. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your 8-day safari in the wilderness.

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